Jerry Baker

Mr. Jerry Baker was born on March 18, 1931, and has been one of the most influential members of the Western Kentucky University family. Mr. Baker graduated from the Bowling Green Business University in 1951 with a bachelor’s degree in accounting. While a student here, he was a part of Pi Tau Nu where he served as an active member. In 2001, Mr. Baker received his Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from WKU.

As a professional, Mr. Baker held many influential positions in the workplace. He served as a board member of Citizens First Bank, Kentucky Arts Council, Bowling Green Warren County Community Foundation, and the Commonwealth Health Foundation. Simultaneously from 1999 to 2010, he held the job title as chairman of Airgas Mid America, and then retired in 2011 when he assumed the position of a consultant for the company until his retirement in 2013. During his time as a professional, he received many awards and honors. Some of these include the induction into the Junior Achievement of South Central Kentucky’s Business Hall of Fame, WKU Philanthropist of the Year in 2006, WKU Foundation Board of Directors Volunteer of the Year in 2002, and induction in the WKU Hall of Distinguished Alumni. He has created an unparalleled legacy of success and value to the workforce that surrounds him, specifically through the scholarship funds he set up at WKU.